Colbeck Comments on Michigan State Police Regional Policing Plan

LANSING―The Michigan State Police (MSP) announced the adoption of a regional policing model designed to enhance services while relying less on a traditional post buildings model. According to MSP, the plan emphasizes enhanced technology and data-driven policing without laying off a single trooper. State Sen. Patrick Colbeck, who chairs the Senate Appropriations State Police and Military Affairs Subcommittee, issued the following statement after reviewing the new plan:

“I fundamentally believe Michigan needs to reinvent itself, and that means rethinking the way state government operates to achieve that goal. The MSP's announcement to restructure its operations is a prime example of cutting costs while improving services and I would like to commend Col. Etue and her staff for the thoughtful, well-designed plan.

“As we continue to make government more efficient, it's become increasingly apparent that the costs associated with maintaining outmoded post buildings far outweigh their usefulness, given the advancements in technology and communication. Today, a state trooper's cruiser is, for all intents and purposes, a mobile office equipped with technology and communications equipment that reduces the need and cost of maintaining an expensive brick-and-mortar post model.

“Despite the reduction in MSP posts, not a single state trooper will be laid-off. In many ways, state troopers will be more valuable and more responsive, and public safety will be strengthened.

“Ours is a much different state today, and the department's new regional post plan reflects that change. This plan is forward-thinking and designed for long-term viability, and will serve the needs of a reinvented Michigan. I look forward to working with my legislative colleagues, the state police and the governor's administration as we move forward in this process.”